El Molinon Sports Fan Tips
El Molinon is a venue in Gijon
Best restaurants near El Molinon?
While the name may be a bit of a mouthful, the Meson Pulperia Tierras Gallegas has to be near the top of your list of nearby eateries. The traditional Galician food encapsulates all that we love about Spanish cuisine, though it will be pretty busy on a match day.There's also La Salgar, Casa Aurora and Restaurante Los Pisones, all within a few minutes' walk of the stadium, charging very fair prices given the quality of food available!
How do I get to El Molinon?
From Gijón, either take the number 1 or number 10 bus, as both will take you right up to the venue. This is definitely the preferred option if you are arriving into the town's main train station which is situated some 3.5 km from the stadium. The buses run at least three times an hour. From the town centre itself, you could walk the 2 km pretty easily.It's not impossible to park at the stadium, but spaces are limited. You should try to arrive as early as possible – perhaps go for a drink first!
Things to check out around El Molinon?
The stadium is situated right next to San Lorenzo Beach, a.k.a. La Playa de San Lorenzo. Unlike tourist beaches which are usually filled with pasty British holidaymakers, esta playa is often quite quiet, even when the sun is beating down on the sand! There is no better way to pass the time - outside of the match itself - than sitting around, playing sports or swimming at the beach. If you have a couple extra days in Gijón, then be sure to spend at least one of them at the here!
Best Insider tip at El Molinon?
It is quite uncommon for matches at the stadium to sell out, unless it is a particularly big game, such as Barcelona or Real Madrid, so you can probably buy your tickets on the day. Since you may not know the price very far in advance, you can plan your day and only buy a ticket if it's within your budget. Buying tickets directly from the stadium is really easy, and a pretty fun experience if you're used to only buy online!
What to expect from the El Molinon crowd?
El Molinón is actually quite well-known – renowned, even – for its exceptional atmosphere. The stadium itself maybe a bit haphazard and oddly designed, but the fans inside are absolutely perfect. Sporting have struggled to remain in the top flight in recent seasons, and at times it's almost like the sheer force of will of the fans is what's keeping them there. The noise is exceptional. The extensive roofing traps the noise and amplifies it immeasurably. They're a fun crowd, and their matches are hard to forget.
El Molinon seating?
All round the seating is pretty good. The views are decent from just about anywhere since it's not too big or old! Prices can vary a fair bit depending on the opposition, but it's a pretty small variation (for La Liga) at €20-€30 or so between the worst and the best seats available. Unless you prefer to sit behind the goal, in which case your favourite tickets are the cheapest! Result!
Best Food and Drink at El Molinon?
As it is quite common with Spanish football, fans tend to prefer grabbing a bite to eat before or after the game. There are several great eateries just outside the stadium – principally Hat Trick Molinón – which are able to rustle you up a tasty meal in no time. However, if you're worried about the half-time hunger, you should be able to take some snacks in with you if you have the foresight to prepare a couple of sandwiches in advance!
Best Bars around El Molinon?
Did someone say sports bar? The Carling Goal is right on the doorstep of the stadium and offers TV and cold beer, as well as good company – there's nothing more you could ask for from a matchday bar! Alternatively there is Hat Trick Molinón – even closer to the stadium – or La Salgar, a slightly more upmarket option where you might go to "tomar vino” before the big game!